The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a beloved actress and voice artist, Arleen Sorkin, who has passed away at the age of 67. The news of her untimely demise was first reported by fellow voice actor Neil Kaplan through a heartfelt tribute on Twitter, sending shockwaves through fans and colleagues alike. Arleen Sorkin was renowned for her iconic roles on the soap opera Days of Our Lives and as the original voice actress of the infamous Harley Quinn, a character she brought to life with remarkable flair and creativity.
Arleen Sorkin’s significant contributions to the entertainment industry spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on various platforms. The world first came to know her as the voice behind Harley Quinn in Batman: The Animated Series, which debuted in 1992. The character’s inception itself is a testament to Sorkin’s influence, as she was the real-life inspiration for Harley Quinn, a creation of her college friend Paul Dini. Sorkin’s unique blend of twisted loopiness and sympathetic depth gave Harley Quinn her distinct personality, helping her become one of the most beloved and enduring characters in the DC Comics universe.
Sorkin’s talents extended beyond animation, as she also made a significant impact in the realm of soap operas. Her portrayal of Calliope Jones in the long-running NBC soap opera Days of Our Lives showcased her versatility as an actress. Her appearances on the show, spanning from 1984 to 2010, earned her four Soap Opera Digest Awards and two Daytime Emmy Award nominations, highlighting her exceptional acting abilities and her ability to captivate audiences across different genres.
In addition to her work in animation and soap operas, Sorkin made noteworthy contributions to television series such as Duet and America’s Funniest People, showcasing her comedic prowess and endearing screen presence. Her wide-ranging talents were not limited to acting alone; Sorkin also ventured into screenwriting, co-writing the screenplay for the 1997 film Picture Perfect, starring Jennifer Aniston, Jay Mohr, and Kevin Bacon.
Sorkin’s legacy extended beyond her on-screen achievements. She was married to television producer Christopher Lloyd since 1995 and shared two sons, Eli and Owen, with him. Lloyd, known for producing the hit sitcom series Frasier, and Sorkin shared a unique connection through the entertainment industry, even making an on-screen appearance together in the final episode of the show.
The entertainment community has been quick to pay tribute to Arleen Sorkin’s legacy and influence. Notable figures such as Mark Hamill, the iconic voice of The Joker and Harley Quinn’s on-screen companion, and James Gunn, co-CEO of DC Studios, have taken to social media to honor her memory. James Gunn shared a throwback photo of Sorkin, reminiscing about her role as the original voice of Harley Quinn and her significant contribution to the character’s enduring popularity.
Arleen Sorkin’s passing marks a profound loss for the entertainment world. Her ability to breathe life into fictional characters, coupled with her vibrant personality and exceptional talent, earned her a special place in the hearts of fans across the globe. As the world mourns her departure, her contributions to the entertainment industry will continue to be celebrated, and her legacy will live on through the characters she brought to life and the impact she left on the hearts of those who had the privilege of experiencing her work.